Farewell Plateau City! (DM Cayzle) Friday June 3rd, 2005 1:51:10 PM
The group heads up to the roof, and Tratain casts his Windwalk spells.
[OOC: Note that the spell affects "You and one touched creature per three levels." There are eight creatures in the party -- Feng, Draax, Renik, Arien, Sarigar, Black Paws, Tratain, and Monthor -- so Tratain would need to be 21st level to carry everybody with one spell. I'll assume he has two prepared. Okay?]
Travelling with the spell, it is a quick trip down one plateau and out of Plateau City, down another at South Dangdrum, and across the third a long ways over field and forest. Finally down at Niffwig and due west to Edenmoor.
By the time you get there, having taken more time in figuring out landmarks than in actual travel, it is getting near night.
Perhaps it would be wiser to rest here, plan and recharge, and tackle the job in the morning? Or to press on in the dark?
Monthor Friday June 3rd, 2005 2:51:54 PM
" If we're planning on sneaking by it may be better to do it at night. That said, it may not make any difference if this thing is as powerfull as it is made out to be. We may want to send out a scout or two tonight to check out the situation. Hell, we may just want to walk up to the thing in the morning and ask it to let us pass. Once we explain what wees want it may well just open the door for us."
Monthor shrugs
" Sometimes the direct route is best. "
Arien Friday June 3rd, 2005 5:56:07 PM
"I would recommend resting the night before we move on, if we do wind up fighting this thing I would prefer to be at full capacity."
Draax Friday June 3rd, 2005 8:56:09 PM
"Both Arien's and Monthor's ideas sound good to me. We need to be at full strength and knowing what expect might give us an edge."
Renik Saturday June 4th, 2005 4:33:12 AM
"I prefer to rest the night. We can scout this creature in the morning if needs be. If it is truly that powerful it may well detect any scout we send, and then draw us into a confrontation before we are ready. Let's get some rest first."
Renik proposes a 3 stage watch pattern and offers to take first watch.
Sarigar and Black Paws Saturday June 4th, 2005 4:27:12 PM
During the "flight", the airy forms of Sagiar and Black Paws are not nearly as energetic as the last time this spell was used. No loop, spirals or other aerodynamic tricks. In fact, is that cloudy shape snoring?
Upon landing, the brothers are no longer feigning their alertness. They are feeling highly rested and ready to go. As watches are divied up, the brothers also will take first watch as they are once again alert.
They also offer to scout the guardian. Being as in tune with nature as they are, even if they are detected, it's less likely that a fae would attack them outright. Hopefully it would see them as brothers in nature.
Tratain Monday June 6th, 2005 8:23:22 AM
Tratain agrees with Renik "Lets rest the night, prepare new spells and then try the guardian."
A Night Spent In Edenmoor (DM Cayzle) Monday June 6th, 2005 9:32:30 AM
Edenmoor is a frontier town, beyond the First Plateau, on the border. To the northwest is the Culverwood, and then on to the Emerald Kingdom. To the west is Izen and Mount Bone. To the southwest, along the coast, is Dirt City.
It is a small walled city, overlooked by the new Tiger's Eye fortress of the Mailed Fist, the mercenary organization. No doubt the townsfolk are glad to put up with hosting an infantry unit, given the area's history as a battlefield and gateway to the Plateaus.
It is easy to find a hostelry catering to the well armed. The Hamleteers choose one that seems to attract more of the officer class than the grunts. But the place is far from quiet -- it seems that a celebration of sorts is under way.
It turns out that the adventuring group known as "The Three" had its very first adventure in Edenmoor ... of course, they became the Storm Dragons. Now that the news is out that the Storms have joined with the Golds to form the Platinum Dragons, there seems to be a sort of "home-town team" revelry going on.
In the inn, the gossip is thick about the Platinums. If you can make a Chr or Gather Info check vs DC8, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {It seems there is talk of erecting a statue in town to honor the heroes.}
If you can make a Chr or Gather Info check vs DC16, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {Some people have heard that the town has hired a Greenmage to create the statue out of living wood.}
In the morning, you rise refreshed and rejuvenated [spells prepared, please?]. You are served strawberries and cream for breakfast -- and the strawberries are the size of fists. The staff seems a little on edge, though.
If you can make a Chr or Gather Info check vs DC16, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {One of the grooms says that several horses broke free of their stalls and ran off this morning on their own.}
[OOC: If you want to make a greater effort to press the flesh and seek out info, feel free to add +1 to your Gather Info checks if you spend 10 gp to loosen tongues. Add +2 if you spend 100 gp. That's per check, and please decide before you roll!]
Tratain d20+1=14 d20+1=7 d20+1=16 Monday June 6th, 2005 11:07:53 AM
In the Mourning Tratain casts his Magic Vestment spell on his Shield using his rod of Lesser extend. (I do this every mourning, do I need to Post it in every post?)
He goes about the village talking with the people and finds out that they want to build a statue of the Storms, and that several of the horses broke out of thier stalls last night and he relays it to the others.
When everyone is gathered together he says "We should attempt to talk to the guardian first to see if it will let us by. If not we will either have to trick it or just try and run by. If Arien can memorize some Wall of Force spells or other wall spells if he has any we may be able to seal it away from us while we enter. I have several spells that may help. My Blade Barrier, a greater command spell, and Two Dimensional Anchor spells. If we Anchor it and wall it in we will have several minutes to enter the portal."
Monthor d20=3 Monday June 6th, 2005 11:08:10 AM
ooc> With a role of 3, Monthor finds out nothing about nothing.
::Finaly, Monthor finds a bar to cater to his needs.::
" SURFS UP DUDES!!!!! "
ooc> Just kidding.
After entering the establishment, Monthor's eyes grow wide and his mouth starts to lightly salivate at the thought of, what else, beer.
{Hummmm.... BEEEEEER!}
" Belly up to the bar boys! First round's on me!!!!"
:: And Monthor buys the first round, tiping the bar tender generously. ::
Monthor joins in the celebration and two fists back drinks all evening long. He'll verily enjoy himself as much as possible. Every once in a while, he'll raise him mug and bellow...
" To the Dragons!!!!"
No heads will be cracked unless they deserve to be cracked of course but Monthor will challenge any suitable looking oponent to arm wrestling and won't be shy about wagering on himself. He won't be shy about signing old Dwarven war songs or regail any one willing to hear with stories of adventures, both real and somewhat exagerated.
Tratain Spells Monday June 6th, 2005 11:39:34 AM
0 level: Cure Minor Woundsx2; Detect Magicx3; Read Magic 1st Level: Endure Elements; Shield of Faithx2; Divine Favor;Prot. From evilx2;Remove Fear(Sanctuary) 2nd Level: Endurance; Bull's Strength; Delay Poisonx2; Silence; Resist Energy(Spiritual Weapon) 3rd Level: Remove Curse; Invisibility Purge; Dispel Magicx2;Magic Vestment*;(Protection from Energy) 4th Level: Freedom of Movement;Death Ward;Dimensional Anchorx2;(Divine Power) 5th Level: Greater Command; Righteous Might;Greater Command;Quickened Shield of Faith (Flame Strike) 6th Level: Heal; Heal; Mass Bears Endurence (Blade Barrier)
Renik d20+8=27 d20+8=27 d20+8=17 Monday June 6th, 2005 4:25:36 PM
(Gather Info 27, 27: heck, that's all my good rolls used up finding out about statues and that the horses bolted! :-))
Renik orders a bottle of Asildurian Red and takes a seat at the inn. His natural affinity for eavesdropping and engaging total strangers in conversation soon reveal that there are rumours the townspeople have hired a Greenmage to build the statue Tratain speaks of from living wood.
Returning to his companions he pours a second large glass and grins as Monthor downs his fifth ale in as many minutes. He politely declines the offer of a beer, preferring to stick with his wine. "To the Platinum Dragons" he agrees, raising his glass. May they live long and joyous lives. And to the Windhorn Hamleteers! May we live past the morrow!"
"Tratain what you say makes sense. Diplomacy first, to find out what the rules of the game are. Give away as littl;e as possible, whilst gathering intelligence. Then, if needs must, negatiation or deception. And then, if all other routes are exhausted, battle. But let us not get ahead of ourselves. Let's enjoy this night to the full, rest well and see what the new day brings."
His eyes light up suddenly as the barmaid delivering Monthor's latest round of drinks happens to smile in his direction.
"I'll be back in just a moment" the rogue informs his companions, picking up his glass and half-full bottle as he rises with a familiar gleam in his eye.
He isn't.
Draax d20-1=7 Monday June 6th, 2005 7:49:01 PM
Draax grabs a seat and sits quickly watching the others. Letting his mind wander, Draax does not pick up any usable info. He thanks Monthor for his drink and raises his glass with the others in respect to the Dragons.
Feng d20+4=5 d20+4=23 d20+4=23 Tuesday June 7th, 2005 2:01:00 AM
He's a little tense at first but after an ale or two Feng relaxes. He drinks with the viallgers, talking and listening about things that are important to them. He's dissapointed in what he's heard, about the living statue and the horses but thats something for tomarrow.
Sarigar and Black Paws Tuesday June 7th, 2005 8:30:31 AM
With the overwhelming stench of "civilization" and stale beer that threatens to suffocate them at the entrance to the inn, the brothers opt to simply wander the town for a bit. Not looking for anything in particular, they just walk about the town for an hour or two before boredom begins to make them sleepy. Eventually, they head back to the inn where the others are staying and find the nearest stable to sleep for the night.
As the horses begin breaking out from their stalls, the brothers at first feel compelled to stop them, or at least calm them down. Then they look at the stalls, which, to them, look like prison cells and simply let them go on their way. Sarigar was locked up once and sharing their desire to be free and to run, he wasn't about to help their jailers. In fact, he's tempted to help some escape, but thinks better of that since he'd likely be caged for doing that.
The brothers rise with the sun and with the commotion of the discovery of the missing horses. They let slip a bit of a smile as they think of the horses running free in the nearby countryside. Sarigar goes about his rather odd "prayer"/breakfast gathering rituals then joins the others once they exit from the inn.
Spells Prepared: Jump, Longstrider
Which way to the Gate? (DM Cayzle) Tuesday June 7th, 2005 2:48:51 PM
Sarigar and Black Paws pass the night in the stables. The horses at first are very unhappy at the sight and sound of the huge canine, but Sarigar makes everybody friends. [OOC: I'm assuming that a decent Wild Empathy score will do the trick.]
In the night, several strange things happen in the stables. Sarigar wakes up from a dream of a Black Moon. Three owls fly into the stable. They hoot and hoo at the horses, and at Black Paws. The owls are clearly talking with the four-leggers. To Sarigar, the owls voices almost make sense, but no.
To Black Paws and the horses, though, the meaning is clear. Through Black Paws, Sarigar gets an inkling. "Come north to the Forest! Come help in the Forest! Need is great in the Forest! Come north and west to War!" It is this that provokes the horses to run away.
In the morning, the directions that Joe Hand gave you echo in your heads. "The short cut is nearby. It's just west of Edenmoor in a place called the Valley of Humiliation where the last battle against the Aisildurians was fought 400 years ago. There's a magical gate in the dead end of that valley. You travel east down the valley and the door faces out west."
As you linger over your breakfast, the questions come: Where the heck is this Valley of Humiliation? Should you just go wandering west to find it? As you go, what precautions will you take? Marching order? Spells cast? etc.
[OOC: Friends, keep in mind that you have been cautioned about the great danger ahead. Remember the words of Joe Hand: "If you try one path and are defeated, the survivors can try the other, if you feel like taking double the punishment!" Normally my philosophy is to kill PCs for being stupid. In the coming adventure, I will kill you if you are not clever enough. Fair warning!]
[OOC: Thanks, Joe, for the reminder about the Magic Vestment. Sure, tell me whenever you cast it.]
Renik Tuesday June 7th, 2005 4:39:30 PM
"Unless anyone has any spells that can lead us to our target let us head west" says the rogue. "I can render myself invisible, then fly high and do arial reconnaissance. Hopefully I'll be able to spot the Valley from a high vantage point. From there we can work out how best to tackle the guardian. I also want a plan in place to get us out of there fast in case things go badly wrong. That's one for the spellcasters, I suspect."
He shakes his head, worried about the dangers that lie ahead. They face a very grave risk with this undertaking. But Valdor would not have tasked them with this mission if he did not think them capable of success. There must be a way through.
"Sarigar, you're up front scouting, Feng and Monthor next, Draax stick close to Arien in the middle of the pack. Tratain, rearguard. I'll join you there whilst on the ground. Any questions or suggestions before we move out?"
Tratain Tuesday June 7th, 2005 7:24:12 PM
Tratain Follows Reniks Instructions. He says While They Travel "If the Valley is Far enough outside of Town that its near dark when we get there we should camp outside it. I don't think we want to be wandering around there in the Dark. It will also Give me a chance to memorize a spell that will allow me to guide us straight through the Valley to the portal I hope. Remember Diplomacy First, if we have to win our way fast we have to move very quickly. Arien have those wall spells ready, if the guardian is as powerful as we suspect we will need to effect the area around it and not it directly because our spells will probably fail."
Arien (Mage Armor) Tuesday June 7th, 2005 8:20:20 PM
"I can cast the spell that we used with the giant's again if you like. I can change all of us to look like something else, a group or deer or somesort. Also I can make someone invisible for a period of time, and I have several potions that I can give to people. I have a potion of haste, a potion of invisibility, and a potion of flying."
Spells Memorized 0 Level: Detect Magic x2, Light, Read Magic x2 1st Level: Burning Hands, Magic Missile x5, Protection from Evil 2nd Level: Rope Trick, Scorching Ray x4, Extended Shield, Extended Mage Armor 3rd Level: Displacement, Dispel Magic, Fly x3, Lightning Bolt x2 4th Level: Dimension Door x2, Ice Storm, Greater Invisibility, Solid Fog 5th Level: Cone of Cold, Teleport, Wall of Force x2 6th Level: Chain Lightning, Disintegrate, Veil
Monthor Wednesday June 8th, 2005 7:45:01 AM
Monthor falls in as directed by Renik. " Having an escape plan is wise. Yes, it is...."
Monthor scratches his beard.
"If it ends up bein a battle and If this thing is as tough as we think it is, it will likely go after the magic slingers first. We should have a plan to protect them, or at least keep the creature from getting to them until they do that magic that they do so well. Me can hit it from the air using me cross bow and a few other surprises me have tucked away or me can slash at it with me pappy's axe. Me needs to know if ye want me to protect or attack. Anyone knows what usually works against this kind of beasty? Are weapons and spells gonna harm it at all? "
Monthor pauses again.
"Can we bribe it...? Me pappy always tell me 'Monthor, know your ennemie'. What so we really know about this thing? What's our advantage here? What's our strenghts? Maybe we need to wait a bit and find out more about it first. Do we know anyone close by that we can talk to about this thing?"
Monthor's face is starting to get read in obvious frustration.
" Me have a lot of questions... that's not good when your looking at fighting something badder then you be. "
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+31=34 d20+17=33 d20+26=37 d20+17=21 d20+16=32 d20+16=28 d20+16=34 d20+16=19 d20+14=15 d20+14=21 Wednesday June 8th, 2005 8:32:50 AM
The brothers lead the way from concealment. Every so often they reveal themselves enough that the nearest party member can spot them then slip back into the brush (Hide 34/33, Move Silently 37/21). Knowing danger is near, they open their senses to the fullest, relying as much on hearing, scent and touch as much or more than on just seeing Listen 32/28, Spot 34/19).
If they spot any wolves in the area, they will carefully approach them (Wild Empathy 15, Hero Point to reroll 21) since it would be their territory and signal the others to stay clear and point them to a direction that would carry their scent away from the wolves. They will ask the wolves if they know of the guardian, what it is and where it is.
Tratain (Second Post) d20+1=20 d20+1=20 d20+1=6 d20+1=19 Wednesday June 8th, 2005 9:12:04 AM
Before Leaving Town Tratain will ask around for any information about the Valley of Humiliation, where it is, what kind of creatures live there. Also he will ask about the guardian and if anyone has seen it, knows what it is etc.
(Gather Info Checks 20, 20, 6, 19. Not sure how many I would need so rolled a bunch)
Feng Wednesday June 8th, 2005 10:23:37 AM
"We don't know what the guardian will be, Joe Hand did say it changed from time to time. We do know it will be stronger. I'm guessing this guardian will be fiercely loyal and will not be bribed. Is it possible that we can make him leave the door? Perhaps we could hide close by while possibly Arien gets the guardian to chase him. Once the guardian is away Arian Dimension Door's back and we rush through the gate."
Draax Wednesday June 8th, 2005 1:24:23 PM
Draax gets in the marching order next to Arien as he listens to the suggested plans for tackling the guardian. He agrees with the diplomacy first plan and deception as an alternative.
Help from Afar (DM Cayzle) Wednesday June 8th, 2005 2:41:41 PM
Before leaving Edenmoor, Tratain does a little investigating. He learns that the Valley of Humiliation is the major route west into Izen, and that in the past the Lord of Mount Bone has invaded that way. Tratain now has a pretty clear idea of how to get there.
Evidently knowledge of the Fae Gate and its Guardian is not common. The most Tratain learns are stories about leprechauns and wil-o-wisps that haunt the old battlefield at night.
Well, at length the party sets out.
Renik is flying invisible above party.
Sarigar stays out in front, scouting. He and his friend are very sneaky. They look for signs of canines, but to no avail.
Feng, Monthor, Draax, and Arien are next.
Tratain keeps the rearguard. He holds out hope for diplomacy, and thinks about spell strategies. He wisely considers that the guardian may be resistant to magic.
[OOC: Is anybody mounted? I'm assuming no. If not (Feng?), please let me know ASAP!]
Arien joins in the magical planning.
Monthor talks about protecting the casters -- always a good idea. He has some smart questions, too. Feng offers some answers, and mentions that fooling the guardian might be an option.
Before the party gets far outside the town, Renik is the recipient of a Sending! The message: This is Mordrid of the Platinums. Gate is in a blind canyon south off Humiliation Valley. It looks quiet. Warning -- Time is critical. Good Luck."
Eventually, the party is about three-quarters of the way to the Valley of Humiliation. The terrrain is scrub and grasses with a few trees -- the badlands of Izen are near. It is mid-afternoon.
But even if these are badlands, they are flourishing badlands! There are huge flocks of birds far overhead. The smell of honeysuckle and lilac are heady and strong. Even the clouds seem plumper, the sedge taller, the brooks faster. Nature is vibrant, abounding and glad with great energy -- more energy, maybe, than the Wold has ever contained.
It occurs to you, especially those with wilderlands experience, that the Wold has moved on. The wakening of the Fae King has swept in a power that slept alongside him, quiet in rest, free and eager now it is awake.
But is there is too much? Animals pick up the vibe. Flocks of birds wheel wildly in the sky. Nothing wants to sleep. Everything alive, to some degree, feels the power, thrumming under their feet, drifting into their soul.
These philosophical musings lull you, a little, but then something jerks you back to alertness.
If Sarigar can make a Listen check vs DC20, then Highlight to display spoiler: {He hears the sound of high-pitched voices arguing in the near distance -- maybe 50 feet away. The rest of the group is about 300 feet back behind him.}
If Renik can make a Spot check vs DC15, then Highlight to display spoiler: {He sees the smoke smudge of a dry campfire up ahead. He is flying above the main group; the smudge is maybe 250 feet ahead.}
Renik (Flying, invisible) d20+14=18 d20+25=35 d20+20=38 d20+14=32 d20+14=20 Wednesday June 8th, 2005 6:08:13 PM
As he scans the terrain ahead for signs of the valley they seek Renik spots something (spot 18). His eyes narrow and he silently draws both shortswords. He is aware that their mission is of the utmost urgence, but he is intrigued. Who could be out here, making camp so close to the guardian? Could someone else be seeking the guardian too? Might something be learned from whoever set that campfire?
He swoops down, informs Tratain that he has seen signs of a campfire some 250 feet ahead, and asks him to pass the information to the rest of the group and proceed slowly and silently. He then rises and flies swiftly, using cover where he is able, keeping himself as still as possible to avoid making a sound (flying at full speed, Hide 35, Move Silent 38). As he draws closer he strains to see and hear anything up ahead (Spot 32, Listen 20). He will remain hidden, attempting to eavesdrop if possible.
Tratain d20+10=17 d20+10=30 Wednesday June 8th, 2005 7:57:43 PM
At Reniks Warning Tratain tells the others to be on thier guard and readies his Warhammer and Shield and begins to Look and Listen for what Renik warned about (Spot 17, Listen 30)
Arien (mage armor) Wednesday June 8th, 2005 10:08:32 PM
Arien looks about at Renik's warning, wondering if they are being watches even now. A bit unsettled Arien mentally reviews his spell selection.
Draax d20+6=22 Thursday June 9th, 2005 12:14:41 AM
When Tratain relays Renik's warning, Draax pulls his bow and starts scanning the area as they walk (spot 22).
Monthor d20=19 d20=2 Thursday June 9th, 2005 8:03:50 AM
Monthor readies his axe (unflammed) and takes a defensive position near the spell casters.
{ Herrrrre beasty, beasty, beasty.....}
(Spot 19-2=18 Listen 2-2=0)
Feng Thursday June 9th, 2005 9:54:33 AM
Feng draws his axe and walks beside his companions. He tries to be quiet but every step makes his armor to make noise. Nervous, Feng says a silent prayer to the gods asking for the strength to get through this latest challenge.
ooc: Feng doesn't want to risk his mounts safety.
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+16=25 d20+16=26 d20+16=26 d20+31=35 d20+17=26 d20+26=32 d20+17=35 Thursday June 9th, 2005 11:33:08 AM
Eyes and ears keening searching for signs of danger around, the brothers key in on the sounds of talking in the not too far distance (Listen 25/25). They instantly freeze. Making sure they haven't been spotted (Spot 25).
If it appears they are still undetected, they will make their way back toward the party (Hide 35/26, Move Silently 32/35). They will attempt to intercept the party about 150ft from the voices.
He whispers to the others, "Voices ahead, short walk, out of hearing though. Squeaky voices, like birds or rats maybe. Didn't see em, didn't wanna get too close. We're not close to where the guardian should be yet."
In a flash of insight he adds, "If the guardian is touched by nature, like brother and me, with all the birds around, he probably knows we're coming already."
Insect-taurs! (DM Cayzle) Thursday June 9th, 2005 4:45:50 PM
The able eyes and ears of scouting Renik and Sarigar offer you almost complete surprise over the strangers you have just now encountered.
The sneaky aerial Renik reports that a large troop of tiny creatures is encamped around a fire. It is a small campfire to you, but a bonfire to them. Renik reports that these seem to be some kind of insect-taur -- half cricket from the waist down, and human (but tiny) from the waist up! They are hoppy and active, so it is hard to count ... maybe a score of them? maybe two score?
Sarigar is slightly distracted by the sudden, and perhaps slightly paranoid, idea that the guardian already knows you all are coming.
Anyway, the two scouts confirm that the tiny beings seem distracted over some argument. There seem to be two factions. If Renik or Sarigar speak Sylvan (or have some other way to understand them) then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {Both sides want to serve the King, one faction by going north, one by going south.}
If you can make a Knowledge Nature check vs DC15, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {These are clearly fey.}
If the same check beats a 20, then Highlight to display spoiler: {These creatures are a kind of sprite, called Grigs. They are brave and good-hearted.}
If the same check beats a 25, then Highlight to display spoiler: {Grigs are known for their archery, invisibility, flight, and musical enchantments.}
Right now the entire party is together, about 150 feet away from the insect-taur campfire, laying low. It is mid-afternoon. What's the plan?
Renik Friday June 10th, 2005 7:47:15 AM
Renik eavesdrops on the conversation, and though his Sylvan is a little rusty, the meaning of the conversation is clear. He slips back to the others and explains the creatures are debating whether to support the king by heading North or South.
"We could turn this to our advantage, if we're willing to be a little ruthless." muses the rogue. "If we could get these creatures to approach the Guardian we might gain some valuable insight into its power and intentions. If a battle broke out we might even be able to slip past in the confusion. I could try to pursuade them, while you kept out of sight. Or could see if they have any knowledge of the Guardian. What do you think?"
Tratain Friday June 10th, 2005 9:09:34 AM
Tratain says "I doubt that the guardian would attack them. I Think we should approach them as friends. We can tell them about the Templars Army going after Parnoth and that we have spoken to the Pixie Lord, and Helped the Hydrae create thier Fairipusses. Perhapse in the course of our conversations we can get some information out of them."
Monthor Friday June 10th, 2005 9:16:34 AM
The burley dwarf slapps Renik on the back hard. Likely untentionaly so but when you have the strenght of a small giant it is sometimes hard to control friendly gestures.
" Me like your idea friend Renik but bring someone with ye in case of trouble. Me will stay with the rest and watch their backs. If ye need help, send a sign and me'll come and stump the little buggers good. "
Feng Friday June 10th, 2005 10:10:17 AM
"Unbelievably I agree with Monthor. A fearsome visage and a race known for violence and warfare might not put them in the best moods. I'll stay back in case there is trouble. Oh and they might not like the sight of a half-orc either." Feng says smiling knowing his jibe would not be lost on his shorter companion.
Draax Friday June 10th, 2005 2:14:07 PM
Draax listens to everyone suggestions and likes what he hears, "I believe approaching them as Tratain suggested is our best bet. All those things he spoke of should grant us some favor. I think taking Sarigar is best, if not him then me or Arien to talk to them. Sarigar because of his obvious connection to nature, and Arien or myself for our elven heritage."
Arien (Mage Armor) Friday June 10th, 2005 3:47:31 PM
"I can go with Renik, I also speak Sylvan and I did help with hydrae as well, perhaps we can help these creatures as well."
OOC Cayzle Friday June 10th, 2005 5:32:18 PM
Look for a DM post later tonite, friends.
We'll keep posting through next week as best we can, even while WoldCon is going on.
HeyHeyHey! (DM Cayzle) Saturday June 11th, 2005 7:26:35 AM
Renik, Arien, and Draax step forward to talk with the insect-taurs. They approach openly. Stepping out of the grass about 20 or 30 feet from the fire, they stop to let the creatures see them.
They see about 40 of the tiny cricket-folk, and they are arguing in Sylvan, pretty loudly for people with such small lungs. They also speak very quickly.
As soon as they make their presence known, the three Hamleteers cut off debate sharply. Half of the creatures disappear, invisible. The rest draw bows, except for two who draw ... fiddles? All scatter, so as to not be too near each other. They have the most amazing ability to leap.
From far off, the other Hamleteers looking on see an explosion of tiny creatures as they leap away from their fire.
Assuming the Hamleteers do not have weapons drawn, and perhaps have their hands held out in peace, they are not immediately attacked.
"HeyHeyHey!" one says in an accented Common. "WhatHaveWeHere? WhoAreYou? WhatDoYouWant? WhatDoYouKnow? WhyHaveYouCome? HeyHeyHey?"
Renik d20+13=31 Saturday June 11th, 2005 6:11:01 PM
Holding his hands up, palms outward, the rogue smiles and bows slightly.
"Greetings to you" calls Renik in passable Sylvan. "My name is Renik Dacour, these are my companions, Andraaxius Slowblade and Arien Silverbow. I apologize for interrupting your discussion so rudely, but it sounds to me as if we may be of some help to one another.
If you will indulge a humble adventurer in the clumsy telling of a tale...
We too are caught up in the events precipitated by the coming of the King. Though great joy has been birthed in the Wold by his coming" (here he nods at Arien, thinking of their experience with the Hydrae) "much confusion has also arisen. Difficult choices have to be made. Only a few short hours ago we faced a decision very similar to your own. We stood with the Templars of the Wild and a mighty army, ready to march North into battle against Parnoth the Green, opressor of the Emerald Kingdom and her Elven peoples. The righteousness of that cause could not be denied.
But we too were torn, just as I see you are. For we had met not a day earlier with the Pixie Lord, confidante and ally to the Fae King when last he walked this Wold. He set us on a path towards the Fae Queen Maab, and ultimately we could not turn from that path. We saught advice on how best to reach the Queen from Valdor Dragonstone, who bid us reach her. We were told by one who knows her, Joe Hand, now of the Platinum Dragons, that the most direct route lay here, through yonder valley.
We have seen the army that marches to fight Parnoth, and it is truly formidable. We are but a small band, and if the tales are to be believed the Guardian to the portal to the Valley of Twilight is powerful beyond imagining. Forgive me, but I overheard some of you say earlier that you were being summoned by the Queen, and beckoned south. We beg of you, please, aid us in our quest. Help us to pass through the portal if you are in any way able."
Renik, although not lying at any point, is being a little economical with the truth with regard to their motivations. He glosses smoothly over those elements in his plea to the creatures (Bluff 31).
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+31=36 d20+17=29 d20+26=30 d20+17=32 Saturday June 11th, 2005 10:56:26 PM
Although the brothers would have been more than happy to go along with Renik, Drax and Arien, knowing words...many words, would likely be used, they felt it safer (for their heads) to not go. They do move up a bit closer to the grigs and the greeting party, but still remain a good 100ft away, hidden (Hide 36/29, Move Silently 30/32)
Draax Sunday June 12th, 2005 4:18:43 AM
As they walk up to the camp Draax pulls his hair away from his ear to ensure that his elven heritage is clearly visible. He hold his hands up with his palms outward and his fingers spread apart to show that he holds no weapons. He stays calm and smiles while Renik talks to the cricket-folk. He waits to see the creatures reaction and if the peaceful approach will win over the creatures
Monthor Sunday June 12th, 2005 11:07:31 AM
The dwarf stays on guard and awaits word from the others.
Tratain Sunday June 12th, 2005 10:11:27 PM
Tratain waits with the others for the outcome of Reniks Parlay, he slings his shield and hangs his Warhammer from his belt again. He says to Renik, Draax, and Arien before they head off, Don't Forget to tell them the rest of us are here, if they see us before you mention us it may throw things off, it may put them on thier guard and we may loose any chance at gaining any information from them. Also try to remember as may details about them as possible. We may be able to use Ariens Veil spell to look like them to sneak past the guardian."
Feng Monday June 13th, 2005 4:30:29 AM
Feng hopes the meeting goes well for how were they supposed to battle creatures such as these? They were small, invisible, and could fly.
ChirpChirpChirp! (DM Cayzle) Tuesday June 14th, 2005 12:08:19 AM
Renik's story certainly captures the attention of the insect-taurs. Many of them rub their hind legs together, making a sound like ChirpChirpChirp!
"PleaseComeSit!" they ask, invitingly. "BringYourFriends!"
It is clear that they know about most of your party at least, and they offer to make room around their campfire for all of you. They sense that not all speak Sylvan, so at least some make an effort to speak common.
The factions and their competing desires are soon made clear. One faction wants to head north to join the Templar army. Those ply you all with questions about who is in the army, and when they are marching. They are angry at the Green Dragon. "FreeTheElves! FightTheWyrmm!" they chant.
The other faction feels called to the Gate to Maab's Realm. "MotherNeedsUs! QueenSummonsUs!" The others seem to think that it is just glorious Nature ascendant that they feel, not a specific call.
Both factions are curious about why you want to go to Maab rather than help free brother elves? They want to know more about who you are and what you want before they will agree to help you see Maab. They want to know more about the Pixie Lord, too.
They ask the elf-blooded why they are turning their backs on the slave elves of the Emerald Kingdom. They ask the non-elves why they are even there.
[OOC: Everybody can feel free to join in the conversations. Also, sorry for the late post -- this is the DM post for Monday.]
Renik d20+14=28 Tuesday June 14th, 2005 8:20:59 AM
With a piercing whistle Renik call his companions out of hiding, then thanks the creatures for their hospitality, and sits with them. Renik translates for the non-Sylvan speakers whenever required.
Renik recounts the recent Hamleteer history in detail; the quest embarked upon at the behest of Woodwose the Green Man, the meeting with the Templars of the Wild, a detailed account of their meeting with the Pixie Lord. But in this he is a little more careful than with his other comments. He strives to give the impression that the Pixie Lord had requested they seek out the Queen without ever stating it. Then the tricksy rogue has a flash of inspiration.
"There has been a call to arms, and we debated long and hard as to which path to choose. But in the end we felt we had no choice. Both the Pixie Lord and the Platinum Dragons have made our path clear. We have been bid seek out the Queen and inform her of events, to bring her into this Wold to join in the struggle that unfolds before us. Nothing is more important than this task. Can you imagine the sheer power nature would weild if the King and Queen were united in this war against Parnoth? Surely this would far outweigh any contribution we (or, I suggest with no disrespect intended, you) might make in this war."
(OOC: Bluff 28: any bonus for this slight concoction being based on the truth, rather than an outright lie? Renik never actually says he wants the Queen to fight on the King's side, though his words may give that impression ;-))
If pressed he willingly gives as much information as he is able about the makeup of the force set to march against Parnoth, but first counsels caution; would it not be better to be circumspect about such matters? Who knows who or what might be listening at this very moment? Many are the spies, and far-reaching the influence of the vile Parnoth. He would hate to give away secrets to the enemy.
Sarigar and Black Paws Tuesday June 14th, 2005 1:28:55 PM
The brothers creep cautiously to the edge of the camp. They never come completely out of the forest line. They sit and listen to the discussion, but unless specifically questioned, they do not speak.
Monthor Tuesday June 14th, 2005 7:03:28 PM
Monthor approaches carefully with the others. The burley dwarf is amazed at the appearance of the insect- aurs.
Monthor walks up to Feng and whispers...
{ Gee Princess.... these things may be prettier then you are.... but at least you still smell better. }
With that, Monthor pats the paladin on the arm and lets out a huge belly laugh.
Feng Tuesday June 14th, 2005 7:26:56 PM
Feng does join the others at the campsite though he chooses to hold his tongue. This discussion is delicate and he is no wordsmith. Not like Renik anyway. He isn't sure what Renik is up to but perhaps these little creatures can get them past the guardian.
Tratain Tuesday June 14th, 2005 10:47:43 PM
Tratain approaches the camp with the others when Renik signals. He introduces himself to the Fey and sits and listens to Renik talk with them. When asked about the Army and why those of non-elven blood care he says "First off, The Army was led by Harlee, a druid who was the leader of the Templars of the wild. All manner of beings joined the army, Unicorns, Pseudo-Dragons, Dire Animals, as well as the Druids in the Templars."
He continues "Just because some of us are not elves or half elves doesn't mean we are indifferent to thier suffering. I have many elven friends I would fight and die for. The crusade against Parnoth is a just one, and if our need to see Queen Maab was not so urgent we would be with the Army now leding our support. Its too bad the call to arms has not been sounded before, many would gladly join the fight against Parnoth."
Draax Wednesday June 15th, 2005 12:35:11 AM
Draax takes a sit and listens to Renik and Tratain explain the mission to their host. He waits to see how the creatures will respond to what is being said.
Chief Serent (DM Cayzle) Wednesday June 15th, 2005 1:33:36 AM
A few cricket-folk are attracted by Monthor's laugh. They leap over, putting their cricket-legs to use. "You'reAFunnyOne! ComeSitWithUs!"
The cricket-taurs seem very pleased at the info Renik and Tratain impart. They ply the duo with many questions. When Renik hints at spies, a number look all around, but the only "spies" nearby are Sarigar and Black Paws -- and that misunderstanding is soon cleared up.
Two of the fey hop over to Sarigar. "WhyAreYouHiding? Don'tBeShy! ComeOverHere!"
One grandmotherly cricket-taur, one of the ones with a fiddle, speaks up, and the others quiet slightly.
She says that her name is Serent, and she is the chief of this warband. She asks for introductions. Every cricket-taur in turn offers a name: Favapt, Piring, Tonont, and many others -- 37 in all.
Then each of the Hamleteers is expected to give a name. Chief Serent adds, "PleaseEachOneAndAllOfYou ... TellUsWhatYouWouldSayToTheQueen!"
[OOC: This is the Tuesday DM Post.]
Renik d20+14=34 Wednesday June 15th, 2005 6:48:53 AM
The rogue scratches his goattee for a moment, considering Serent's question.
"What would I say if I stood before the Queen? In truth I had never really considered what words I might use. My entire focus has been on the process of reaching her. I would introduce myself as Renik Dacour, and beg her forgiveness for intruding upon her realm. What then? I suppose I would simply speak of recent events, of the reawakening of the king, and of the resultant changes in the Wold, both natural and political. I would tell of the planned war against the blackhearted Parnoth, of the Fae King's righteous quest and the gathering of nature's people, and beg her to intervene in the conflict with the power only she could muster.
That it what I should like to say. Whether I manage to speak those words so boldly in the presence of the Queen of the Fae herself remains to be seen."
Once again the rogue skirts around the truth without actually lying (Bluff 34). Then he says. "Milady Serent, we have been bid act swiftly, and surely with the army soon to march on the Opressor (if they have not done so already) we have no time to lose. We must attempt to reach the Queen, with or without your help. We realise that facing the Guardian of the Portal to the Valley of Twilight is tantamount to suicide, but at this point we have little choice. We must throw ourselves upon his mercy, and should that fail then we must attempt to best him in battle, however remote our chance of success.
Once again I beg of you; if you have any means of assisting us in our quest, please let us know of it now. Are you able to pass by the Guardian, or do you know of means which might allow it? Will you help us?"
Sarigar and Black Paws Wednesday June 15th, 2005 8:28:20 AM
Only because of the insistance of the little ones do the brothers move any closer, but they still stay on the fringes of the camp. They move in just far enough that it seems to satisfy the grigs.
When asked to give their names, the brothers respond with exactly that, no more, no less. Each speaks his name succinctly and directly.
When asked what will they ask of Queen Maab, Sarigar whispers out, "We need help. Will you help?" Simple, to the point, and few enough words so as to not hurt his head or throat.
Monthor Wednesday June 15th, 2005 9:42:01 AM
Monthor smiles at the the little cricket's enjoyment.
" Yay me little cuties, me will join ye. "
" Me be Monthor of the Axe Head clan. "
Monthor takes a light friendly jap at Feng.
" Don't ye mind the Princess here. He looks big and ugly but but he's not to bad for an 1/2 orc .
Draax Wednesday June 15th, 2005 1:34:22 PM
When it is Draax's turn to speak he fights now the urge to point at Renik and say, "what he just said." Instead Draax stands up and says, "My name is Draax, I would ask the queen for her wisdom and advice to prepare us for the conflict that we will face. And I would ask her to help up in our struggle to make the wold safe to live in."
Feng Thursday June 16th, 2005 6:40:28 AM
"I am Feng, Paladin of the Wold. It is a pleasure to meet you. Thank you for allowing us to warm ourselves by your fire." He says politely.
"CatsGotYourTongues?" (DM Cayzle) Thursday June 16th, 2005 6:55:01 AM
Cricket-taur Chief Serentet smiles at Sarigar and laughs at Monthor and Feng. "YouGiantsAreShy! ButAtLeastYouTry! Monthor! Feng! WhatWouldYouSayToTheQueen?"
When Tratain and Arien just stand silent, the Chief gets a little frustrated. "WhatAboutYouTwo? YourNames? WhatWouldYouSayToQueenMaab? WhyShouldWeHelpYouIfYouWillNotRevealYourHearts?"
"AndHereIsAnotherThingToThinkAbout!" the Chief continues. "IfWeSwearToHelpYouWillYouSwearToHelpUs? ToFightTogetherToWinOurWayToTheQueenAndKing?"
"IThinkWeWillHelpThoseWhoWillHelpUsToo!"
[OOC: This is the Wednesday DM Post!]
Monthor Thursday June 16th, 2005 7:50:51 AM
Monthor scratches his chin at the insect-aurs question.
" What would I say to the Queen?..... WHERE'S THE BEER LADY!!!! "
:: Monthor bellows a huge belly laugh. After he settles down a bit and whipes a small tear of joy from his eye, he composes himself ::
" The skinny tree lovers asked me to protect these ones. They told me that their mission was important and me would be helping the greater good. Me axe is pledged to them and to protecting those that be needing protection. Me not stupied me little friends but me still young and not so wise yet to the ways of the world. So when me meet your Queen, me will stay quiet unless spoken to and me will let the others talk. "
Renik Thursday June 16th, 2005 8:01:18 AM
Ah, the pitfalls and perils of getting into deals with the Fae folk. These little folk will tie you up in knots if you let them. He must tread lightly here.
"I truly have no idea what I'd say to the Fae King. Perhaps that Parnoth deserves death for his evil deeds? But the more important point is that you ask us to help you. I contend that by pursuing this course of action we are doing that already. By bringing the Queen into the Wold we benefit all, and the Fae in particular, and so by turn, you. Surely this is the greatest gift of aid we can offer. In these times of selfless acts and noble deeds it would a shame to think that anyone might be motivated for selfish reasons."
He looks over at his combanions, booting Tratain in the shin with a hollow "clong" and waving his hand before Arien's face.
"Snap out of it, you two! Monthor, Feng, stop your flirting and tell these fine fellows what they wish to know." When Monthor does speak the rogue winces, but holds his tongue. These little folks seem to have taken a shine to the cheerful dwarf and his humour. As, he reflects, has he.
Sarigar and Black Paws Thursday June 16th, 2005 8:46:20 AM
The brothers seem to ponder the question as to if they will help the grigs in their plight. Just as it appears the Sarigar is about to speak, Black Paws begins letting out a series of barks, growls guttural sounds. Sarigar just listens to him, nodding occasionally, then when his brother finishes, he scratches him under the chin telling him, "Good answer brother."
Without thinking about the fact that likely no one but him understood that, he goes back to watching the others in their meeting with the grigs.
Arien Thursday June 16th, 2005 11:18:40 AM
"I am Arien Silverbow, as for what I would say the the Queen, I would ask her assistance in freeing my brethren from Parnoth. As for the Fae King, I would ask him what his plans for the other races of the Wold."
Tratain Thursday June 16th, 2005 11:53:14 AM
Tratain thinking intently staring at the fire is brought back to reality by Renik. He says To the Grigs, "My Name is Tratain, When we meet the queen I would ask for tales of the king before he slept, I would also ask for her help in the upcomming battles. If we met the King my questions would be very similar to the Others, I would ask about his plans for the Wold, who he wishes to depose after Parnoth and the like."
Draax Thursday June 16th, 2005 8:26:46 PM
Draax ponders what he would say to the king and cannot come up with anything productive. He thinks about what he likes about the king and finally comes up with something to say. "I would thank the king for saving the elves and destroying evil."
To the chief he asks, "You say that we must fight our way to the queen. Is there no other way for us to get an audience with her without fighting? And if we must fight do you know who or what we will have to fight to reach her?"
Feng Friday June 17th, 2005 7:25:33 AM
"If I met the queen I would ask her about the king. To tell me about him as only she truly knows him. I would ask about his goals and what has to be done. As for the king, I would ask him why he's making good people suffer while he starts his war against those he deems his enemies." Feng says truthfully.
The Queen Appears! (DM Cayzle) d20+6=15 d20+20=33 Friday June 17th, 2005 9:56:21 AM
From behind Monthor you hear a regal yet feminine voice, quite unlike the cricket-taurs'. "You would say WHAT to me?!?" booms out the voice!
Turning around, you see a small woman, about halfling size, wearing a white crown and a long silver dress! Is she smiling?
"How dare you speak so rudely of me, Earth Brother!!" the woman says to Monthor. She is beautiful and stately.
"TheQueenTheQueenTheQueen!" the cricket-taurs bow low.
If you make a Sense Motive check of 15 or better, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {You notice some of the cricket-taurs are giggling.}
The sound of ethereal magical music begins to fill the air, but does not drown out the Queen.
"If you wish to come to me, then befriend these good fey and serve them well!" the Queen smiles when she refers to the cricket-taurs. "Offer them rich and wonderful gifts! And they will show you the way!"
If you make a Spot check of 33 or better, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {You notice that if you look at the "Queen" in just the right way, she has a cricket-taur's antennae! What's up with that?}
Then she waves her arms regally, bowing her head. There is a blinding brilliant bright flash of beautiful green and blue lights! make a Will save vs DC14 or be blinded momentarily.
If you make a Spellcraft check of 22, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {You recognize a Pyrotechnics spell.}
When your vision clears the Queen is gone!
[OOC: Really sorry this is late! Hope it's in time for you, Joe! This is the Thursday DM post!]
Monthor d20+4=22 d20-2=17 d20+3=11 Friday June 17th, 2005 10:08:02 AM
(Sense Motive 22, Spot 17, Will 11)
Monthor looks pensive at the "Queen" but doesn't say anything for now. He does notice that their new friends seem to be finding all of this quite funny.
As the Queens disappears, the lights momentarily blinds Monthor. Instinctively, the dwarf raises his axe to protect himself. As his vision returns and he sees that he is not being attacked, he lowers it down again.
Monthor leans forward and whispers to Feng. { Somethings smells here... and I don't mean you. }
Draax d20=6 d20+6=12 d20=10 Friday June 17th, 2005 2:14:15 PM
(Sense Motive 6, Spot 12, Will 10) Draax turns around quickly when he hears the voice. When he realizes who is suppose to standing before them he follows the cricket-taurs' example and bows low. A puzzled look appears on his face when the queen tells them what they need to do to reach her. Draax wonders why they have to do anything if she is already here with them.
He is caught off guard with the image disappears and is momentarily blinded by the effects.
Arien d20+1=19 d20+9=26 d20+13=26 d20+23=25 Friday June 17th, 2005 3:22:07 PM
(Sense Motive 19, Spot 26, Will 26, Spellcraft 25)
Arien notices the cricket creatures behavior but keeps his attention focused on the Queen. After the Queen finishes her speech Arien quickly blinks, avoiding the light and noticing the spell she cast.
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+1=12 d20+16=36 Saturday June 18th, 2005 1:07:57 AM
The brothers watch the arrival of the "Queen" with awe and fascination. They don't hardly take notice of the cricket-folk around them (Sense Motive 12). All the pretty lights and colors around her have them quite fascinated. Suddenly, out of the blue (Spot 36), Sarigar speaks out, "Oooo, pretty colors. And even little wigglies on her head like the cricket people."
When she poofs out of sight, they brothers frown as their entertainment is taken away. They return to their cautious vigilance of the shared camp.
Renik d20+3=4 d20+14=20 d20+7=15 d20+2=22 d20+13=33 d20+14=23 Saturday June 18th, 2005 2:00:55 AM
The rogue is entirely captivated by the Fae Queen's arrival. For such a tiny creature she is surprisingly attractive. Despite the queen being the sole focus of his attention he gets the impression that the insectaurs are treating this arrival with grave seriousness (Sense Motive nat. 1, spot 20).
And then, before he has a chance to attempt to flirt with her, or even comment "Aren't you a little short for a Fae Queen?" she is gone in a flash of light. He is able to shield his eyes (Will 15), but ill-conceals his disapointment at her departure. In his experience attractive women are a rare occurence out in the wilderness (oh, for a city!), and it's a crying shame that no sooner does he finally meet one than she leaves.
He looks to his companions in some confusion. "She wants us to give gifts to these Fey, in order that they will lead us to her? How did she learn of our coming? And if she knew of our arrival and the reason for our quest, why did she not discuss it with us here?"
Monthor's whispered misgivings (Listen 23) nag at him. Then Sarigar's words, dismissed as random lupine nonsense mere moments before, suddenly make utter sense to him (Int nat. 20). He turns with a scowl to the grig leader and says in a voice resonant with regret and disaproval;
"I see. It seems that in spite of the gravity of the situation, in spite of your claims of fealty to your elven brethren, in spite everything you have leaned from us about the urgency of our quest, you would rather make sport of us for your own personal gain. It saddens me deeply to see that those that we risk our lives for see this as nothing more than some opportunity for larceny. Enough of this foolishness." He stands and turns to his companions.
"Come my friends. It seems these creatures would rather trick us out of gold and trinkets through petty illusions than secure the future of their race. We can waste no more time here. If they will not help us we must proceed alone."
Renik is doing an astonishing job of appearing grave, serious and statesmanlike. Inside however he is struggling to contain his laughter at the grigs' audacity. That's just the sort of trick he'd love to be able to pull (Bluff 33, nat 20).
CantchaTakeaJoke?! (DM Cayzle) Saturday June 18th, 2005 6:43:07 AM
Monthor and Drax are suspicious. Arien and Sarigar see details that don't quite add up. Feng and Tratain are speechless. Renik puts two and two together and comes to the obvious conclusion.
At Renik's solemn outrage, the cricket-taurs lose it! Pretty much every one starts laughing out loud. "PettyIllusions! GoldAndTrinkets!" they shudder with laughter as they repeat his words.
As Renik stands, the leader, Serent, manages to stand up and compose herself, mostly. "OhOhOh! ComeOnMyFriends! CantchaTakeaJoke? YouGiantsAreWayTooSerious! ComeOnSitDownRelax!"
She has to stop for a minute as a bad case of giggles consumes her.
[This is the Friday DM post.]
Renik d20+3=23 Saturday June 18th, 2005 9:12:18 AM
Softening his demeanor a little (but only a little), Renik smiles slightly, but does not sit. He replies "There is no time for jokes, Serent. We do not have the luxury of sitting and relaxing. This is no longer the time for discussion, it is the time for action. As we stand here wasting time elves may be dying at Parnoth's hand. The army may be on the march, or may even have engaged in combat. There is not a moment to lose.
For the third and final time of asking; will you help us? Choose either way and act upon that decision now, for we can tary no longer."
Renik adjusts his gear, making ready to leave. As he does so he studies the reaction of the Grigs carefully, attempting to determine if there is a genuine desire and ability to help here, or if these Fae are simply intent upon mischief (OOC: Sense Motive 23: nat 20 again! 3 in two posts! Renik has been taking lessons in skill check rolls from Grymash).
Feng Saturday June 18th, 2005 4:48:17 PM
Feng thought the queens appearence was a little convenient. Especially with her request that they give gifts to these fey. Renik is correct however. They have to act now, not waste time.
Draax Saturday June 18th, 2005 10:22:16 PM
When he realizes that it was a joke Draax silently berates himself for falling for it. As cricket-taurs begin to laugh he does his best to stop himself from giggling but does not do a very good job of it. As Renik speaks of the seriousness of the situation Draax starts coughing into his hand to stop the laughter and when that does not work he puts a bandanna to his mouth to cover for his fit of laughter.
Sarigar and Black Paws Saturday June 18th, 2005 10:48:18 PM
As Renik gets up to leave and requests that the other join him, the brothers hop to their feet and turn toward the brushline. As the grigs "plead" with them to wait and stay, they stop to turn back. When the laughter breaks out amongst the grigs, Sarigar and Black Paws simultaneously look at each other and cock their heads to the side in confusion. It's quite clear that they have no idea what the joke is about. "The wigglies on her head weren't that funny."
Almost mockingly, but also half seriously, Sarigar stands a few feet behind Renik, mimicing many of his mannerisms as he berates the fae. Although someone doing such would often draw a smile to their face, Sarigar's face is probably even more stern than Renik's. It's almost as if he's trying to help him make his point by acting same way.
Monthor Sunday June 19th, 2005 9:36:34 PM
Monthor walks up with determination next to Renik and stands by his new friend. The burley dwarf rests on his axe and looks at Serent.
" Yay. What he said. "
Tratain Monday June 20th, 2005 10:59:16 AM
Tratain trying not to look amused by the Grigs Practical joke while while Renik is scolding them sits quietly listening to the outcome of Renik asking them for help again.
An Oath Offered (DM Cayzle) d20=4 d20=14 d20=9 Monday June 20th, 2005 11:49:38 AM
Serent, her giggles subsiding, actually looks abashed at Renik's scolding.
Still, the joke is at least slightly infectious, and some of the party are hard pressed not to laugh or at least smile. Especially Draax, Tratain, and even Sarigar.
But there is serious danger and opportunity afoot, as Renik, reinforced by Feng and Monthor, and even Sarigar, emphasize.
Finally, by the time that the party has had its say, Serent's face has a solemn look. Somehow the other cricket-taurs catch her mood, and all stand and are still.
As common knowledge, you seven know the following:
An oath usually consists of three parts: The Invocation, in which the swearer names some higher power or source of veneration; the Vow, in which the swearer declares the behavior required by the oath; and the Doom, in which the consequences of violating the oath are spelled out.
Here, the Fey's oath has an Invocation to Maab, a Vow to stand in friendship with you until you meet her, and a doom of failure in fun and war until they die or until you forgive them.
You know that oaths are solemn. There are divine servants who specialize in hunting down oathbreakers. You also know that this oath had an IF clause. It only takes effect if you seven all swear a similar oath.
Now, you must make such an oath as will satisfy the fey in return. Pick an Invocation that matters to you. Swear what you will. Declare what will happen if you break your oath.
Or say no thank you and go your way. Choose now!
=======
Renik's sense motive results: It is clear that these fey feel intensly and fully whatever they are doing at the moment. When goofing, that's all that matters. When serious, they are serious indeed. In other words, YES there is desire to help, and YES there is intent for mischief. These are not mutually exclusive for the fey. Renik has the strong sense, though, that this oath will bind them.
Renik Monday June 20th, 2005 1:06:04 PM
The rogue smiles and nods his head in gratitude as the Fey leader speaks. "My thanks, Serent. With you at our side I have far more hope for the success of our enterprise."
He furrows his brow and rubs at his goattee for a moment, pondering his next words. He is well aware of the potential consequences of entering into deals with the Fae folk. But equally he is aware of the importance of their mission. Finally he says;
"I, Renik Dacour, do hereby swear before Wardd, God of Chance and Luck, that if they stand with us I will stand in comradeship with our newfound allies until such time as we have reached Queen Maab to beg her aid and advice. May My Lord of Luck spurn me, may I be cursed with ill-luck until my dying day (or such time as I am forgiven my transgression) if I am untrue to my word.
This I swear!"
He looks to his companions to swear oaths of their own. He rolls his eyes as he notices Sarigar seems more intent upon picking fleas off of BlackPaws' fur and eating them than he is on all this talking. If assistance is required to help the wild man with his oath, Renik will provide it.
Mothor Monday June 20th, 2005 1:26:19 PM
:: Monthor steps forward and takes a deep breath before speaking very loudly and very seriously. ::
" Me, Monthor of the Axe Head Clan swear by my Pappy's beard and me Mammy's eyes to protect me new little buddies from harm and have as much fun and laughs together as we can until such a time as we must part ways. Should me not keep me word, may all the hairs from me beard fall out and my lips never tast beer again. "
Draax Monday June 20th, 2005 10:53:00 PM
Draax has never felt comfortable swearing to any oath but he is impressed with the cricket-taur's words and believes that they are sincere. He is a little lost on which deity to give his oath because although his loves and respects a few his does not really worship any of them. He decides to pick the one that he has done the most business with, Gargul God of Death and Life. He listens to Renik and Mothor and decides to follow Renik's lead with the direction of the oath. Draax draws his sword and salute with it by touching his forehead with the blade as he begins his oath.
"I, Andraaxius Slowblade do hereby swear before Gargul, God of Death and Life that if they stand with us I will stand in comradeship with our newfound allies until such time as we reached Queen Maab to beg her aid and advice. May my sword become useless in my hand and may I walk alone in the wold until I redeem myself if I am untrue to my word."
Sarigar and Black Paws Monday June 20th, 2005 11:17:58 PM
Looking utterly confused at the others as they keep using this word "swear" and bad things happening and all eyes turning toward them in anticipation wonder what to say. I serious look comes over Sarigar's face and he assumes a position not unlike "The Thinker". A few times he perks up like he has an idea, then frumps over as it either fails to pass muster in his mind or completely slips from it. At one point he looks up and around as if wondering what he was supposed to even be thinking about, followed moments later by a "Oh, YA!" expression, then he goes back to thinking.
Finally, he speaks, "Ummm...hmmm...ya...ummm, I'm Sarigar, this is my brother, GrrrRRrarr, and...ummm...we swear on our brotheryness, that we'll help, or...ummm...we leave the pack?"
Black Paws let's out a sound that seems to be part bark and part whimper.
Feeling satisfied with their oath, the brothers quickly go back into their own private oblivion and almost seem to have already forgotten evenything that's been said.
Feng Tuesday June 21st, 2005 12:33:02 AM
Feng thinks for a moment carefully choosing his words, "I Feng Paladin of the Wold hereby swear by the very same gods that grant me their strength that I will stand by seret and his people as I have my companions frin Winhorn Hamlet until the time we reach Queen Maab. If I fail to uphold my vow may the gods strip the strength they grant."
Arien (Mage Armor) Tuesday June 21st, 2005 2:58:10 AM
Arien has only sworn one oath before and it was likewise under special circumstances. After some brief thought Arien steps forward and says, "I, Arien Silverbow, swear upon the spirits of my ancestors, that together we shall reach Queen Maab. Should my vow be proven false never shall I cast a spell until such a time that I am redeemed."
Tratain Tuesday June 21st, 2005 8:42:41 AM
After the others Tratain gives his oath as well. He says "I, Tratain, swear upon My Honor and My Patron Domi, that I shall protect and defend my new allies until we have reached Queen Maab to ask for her aid. If I fail in my vow may my Hammer Crumble, my shield splinter and Domi Turn his back upon me."
Faithful Friends! (DM Cayzle) Tuesday June 21st, 2005 8:59:37 PM
The words of the oaths hang in the air. Their power resonates, and there is a sense that beings greater than yourselves have witnessed them. You have bound yourselves to these fey now, and what will come of that? Regardless, the bonds are strong now!
Then a thin piping voice calls out, "YouMayNowKissTheBride!"
A fiddle starts up, and the cricket-taurs begin to dance and sing. Dozens of them hop on the Hamleteers! There are kisses a-plenty to go around, from both female and male fey. Some magic trickery causes voices to come from all of you (even Black Paws), saying "I do!"
It is very late in the day, and it seems a party has begun -- it would be rude to insist on a departure. Serent invites you to join the camp (or rather, she simply seems to expect that you will). The portions are very small, but the little tastes of fairy wine and buttercup-petal salad are delicious indeed.
Each of you are attended to by your own personal cricket-taur. Here are the names of your new friends, all of whome speak common, more or less:
As you get to know the cricket-taurs, you find out that there are two main clans in this band, the Blossums and the Daisymums, with a few others seasoning the band. Serent is a Daisymum.
Serent tells you that her brother-in-law, Quergi, who is the other fiddler, will take 14 others north to the Anti-Parnoth army. They are going to bring word of the quest to enlist the Queen's help. That leaves 22 cricket-taurs who will go join the Hamleteers on the quest. Does that sound good to you all?
Throughout the evening, you are plied with lots of questions. Where do you live? What do you do? What magic do you have? Do you prefer rose petals or sunflower oil in your Salmonberry Pie? Please say how much you tell, and what you leave out, if it is major.
In the morning, the cricket-taurs rise early.
Tratain Tuesday June 21st, 2005 9:41:19 PM
Tratain is happy with the agreement the Cricket-Taurs propose and spends the night talking and Jokeing with them. He tries to answer the questions they ask as best he can.
I live in the War Cathedral in Platuae City most of the time now but I travel often.
I follow Domi as one of his Clerics, I also server as a Protector of the innocent.
My magics are moderatly powerfull, I can cast the Heal spell, enable myself and my comrades to walk upon the wind, and grant us the endurence of the Bear.
I've Never had a Salmonberry Pie before, so I'm not sure which I prefer."
In the mourning Tratain prepares his spells for the comming Day, and Casts his Magic Vestment spell.
If the party reaches the entrence to the valley he will cast Find the Path and attempt to lead the group to the Portal.
------------------------------------- 0 level: Cure Minor Woundsx2; Detect Magicx3; Read Magic 1st Level: Endure Elements; Shield of Faithx2; Divine Favor;Prot. From evilx2;Remove Fear(Sanctuary) 2nd Level: Delay Poisonx2; Silencex3; Resist Energy(Spiritual Weapon) 3rd Level: Remove Curse; Invisibility Purge; Dispel Magicx2;Magic Vestment*;(Protection from Energy) 4th Level: Freedom of Movement;Death Ward;Dimensional Anchorx2;(Divine Power) 5th Level: Greater Command; Righteous Might;Wall of Stone;Quickened Shield of Faith (Flame Strike) 6th Level: Heal; Find The Path; Word of Recall (Blade Barrier)
Feng Wednesday June 22nd, 2005 12:56:56 AM
"Well Margi my father was an orc chief and my mother was just an unfortuante victim of his. Regardless of the circumstances she raised me and cared for me as much as any mother could. I did not care for my fathers brutal ways and found a higher calling as a paladin of the wold. Now I travel the world with my friends trying to help those that can't help themselves." Feng says as he relates the beginning of his tale. He'll continue throughout the night answering whatever questions he can. In the morning he prepares himself as he always does, cleaning his weapons and armor. Just before setting out he's tempted to call his warhorse but decides against it.
Sarigar and Black Paws Wednesday June 22nd, 2005 9:34:39 AM
When the words come through about kissing the bride, Sarigar looks about wonder who he's supposed to kiss and what exactly is a bride. Black Paws on the other hand isn't as particular as he turns to look at the nearest grig and gives it a typical slobbery canine kiss (lick). A look of surprise comes over his face as he realize the grig is gone. A moment later, he realizes where it is, opens his mouth and lets it fly out, none the worse for wear but covered in wolf spittle.
Sarigar can't help but to laugh so hard he rolls around on the ground, holding his ribs. "HAHAHAHAHA!!! Remind me not to let you get any bigger brother. I don't want you doing that to me some day."
As the questions begin flying, Sarigar answers simply and probably as "mysteriously" as a grig might,...
Where do you live? "Wherever we are."
What do you do? "Whatever we want."
"What magic do you have? "Magic we have? Dunno, sometimes we run faster or bite harder or other stuff, maybe that's our magic."
Do you prefer rose petals or sunflower oil in your Salmonberry Pie? "Dunno what a rose is, but we've licked flowers that looked like the sun before. Some seeds popped off and we chewed em up. Bleh, tasted bad, but the stuff in them was good, but too much trouble to get to."
As is typical, the brothers sleep in "shifts" each napping for a while, then watching for a while. In the morning, they're both up with the sun and scouring the area for breakfast as they prepare their spells.
Spells Prepared: Longstrider, Jump
Monthor Wednesday June 22nd, 2005 1:39:37 PM
The Dwarven warrior will gleefully share his many tales of battles and carousing. He'll sing old battle hymes and tavern songs and dance traditional dwarven dances and drink and eat whatever's on hand. He brushes off any prying about his gear except to say that the axe was a gift from his Pappy and his boots a gift from his Mammy. He'll tell tales of the Dirt City tavern he calls home and the military exploits of his father, a respected and valued member of The Sharps.
Draax Wednesday June 22nd, 2005 3:17:23 PM
Draax kindly answers any questions addressed to him. "I call Windhorn Hamlet my home but I have been traveling past few years. For now I travel with my comrades trying to do our part in making the wold a little safer, if you want a label I call myself a warrior. I am not capable of any magic, I do use magical potions and items to enhance my abilities or grant me a power for a short amount of time. I have never tasted rose petals and I do like sunflower oil, so I will say sunflower oil in my preference."
To be polite Draax ask his cricket-taur companion Telint the same questions.
Draax wonders at the strange customs of the cricket-taurs, he has no idea when they are playing or are serious. The little wedding ceremony joke was interesting (Draax hopes it was a joke), the food was very good and if getting to know their new friend better will get them to see the queen then the extra time is worth it.
Arien Wednesday June 22nd, 2005 3:19:23 PM
Arien offers his shoulder for his new companion to ride upon. As the questions come Arien considers for a moment before answering, "I lived for a while in Plateau City however since then I have been a resident of the Wold in general. As for what I do, well mostly I try to keep these fellows alive," Arien gestures to the party as he speaks, a smile on his face. "Of course that seems to be a full time job, perhaps I could take a vacation sometime. As for my magics well,watch!" Arien cast Veil, changing everyone into something else. The grigs appear to be different types of flowers: tulips, daisies and Irises. The party change to different creatures as well: Feng appears a treant, Renik a fox, Sargiar a dire wolf like his brother, Tratain a stallion, Monthor a bear, Draax a griffon, while Arien himself becomes a Air Elemental. Arien lets the spell go a moment before dismissing it.
Renik Wednesday June 22nd, 2005 4:27:15 PM
Renik looks a little disapointed to be getting his kisses from the decidedly male Bechent, but takes the lighthearted ceremony in good humour. He accepts the need to stay the night, now that the grigs have pledged their aid. He nods in gratitude, and says that he is grateful for any aid the grigs can offer. He asks again though, what do they know of the guardian? Have they any thoughts on how he might be passed?
He chats at length with the Grig and his companions, explaining that originaly he came from Tenslade forest, where his father was warden. He tells the grigs of how his mother died in childbirth, of his childhood with his brother Tarl, and of his father's constant companion, the great bear Elyuson.
With wistful visage he tells of the death of his father and Elyuson and his own flight into the woods where he lived for a while with the Dryads. His voice and face grow hard as he speaks of the corruption of his brother and the fate of the town of Dunskeep, and of how all who lived there fell before the vengeance of the wood when an ancient promise was broken.
Then he tells of how he came to the city and fell in with his new companions, and of their struggles in the never-ending fight against evil. He treies to explain also how he came to fall in love with Plateau City, the greatest city he had ever seen. He attempts to explain the joys of fine food and wines, bathing houses, couturiers, the hustle and bustle, the sheer joyful buzz of life and energy to be found there. And the women. Oh the women...
A lascivious twinkle lights up Renik's eye as he waxes lyrical about the myriad beauties who walk the cobbled streets of Plateau City. Ladies of culture and of courseness, of poise and vivaciousness. Some so slender one must hold one's breath for fear that they might blow away, other so powerful they might snap a man in two. Some with hair and skin so fair it must surely be woven sunlight, or so dark it seems as if they carry the night's depths within their tresses. Yet others whose hair burns like fire, or resonates with the deepest chesnut tones. He speaks of the special beauty to be found in a neck or a lip, a breast or hip, a fleeting expression or stance; each as unique and transient as a snowflake.
He is some good way into this eulogy to the feminine form when he realises he appears to have been transformed into a fox. He laughs, glad that for a brief time the dead weight of responsibility has lifted from his shoulders. For the first time in a very long time he feels entirely at peace, the troubles of the Wold forgotten, at least for one night.
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